The proposed power generation and aluminium projects could create around 10,000 jobs, subject to feasibility studies, government approvals and final investment decisions.
Vedanta Group is exploring an investment of ₹70,000 crore to ₹80,000 crore in West Bengal to establish power generation facilities and an aluminium smelter, chairman Anil Agarwal said on October 28. The proposed projects could create around 10,000 jobs, according to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. ThePrint+1
Agarwal announced the proposal after meeting Adhikari in Kolkata. He said the group would assess the projects’ feasibility and would require timely government clearances and access to essential resources before proceeding.
Asansol is being considered as a potential location because of its coal resources, existing industrial infrastructure and Vedanta’s presence in the region. The group has around 300 acres of land in the area that could be evaluated for the proposed facilities, although additional land may be required. ThePrint+1
The proposed aluminium smelter would require a reliable supply of alumina, a key raw material used in aluminium production. Agarwal said the group was considering transporting alumina from its operations in Odisha, including Jharsuguda, with existing railway connectivity potentially supporting the movement of materials.
Access to coal and water, infrastructure requirements and timely regulatory approvals will be important factors in determining whether the projects move forward. Agarwal said the group would conduct a feasibility study before taking a final investment decision.
The Vedanta chairman indicated that the projects could become operational within three years if the proposals prove viable and receive the necessary support from the state government. However, the investment remains at the exploratory stage, and the final project details have not been confirmed. ThePrint+1
Beyond direct employment, the proposed aluminium facility could create opportunities for smaller businesses supplying components and services to downstream industries. Agarwal said local entrepreneurs could potentially establish related industrial units requiring investments of ₹5 crore to ₹50 crore.
The West Bengal government has expressed its willingness to support the investment proposals. The scale, timing and employment impact of the projects will depend on the outcome of the feasibility assessment, land and infrastructure arrangements, and the required approvals.
